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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Pachytene and Zygotene?

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Pachytene and zygotene are two sub-stages of prophase 1 in meiotic cell division. The main differences between them are:

  1. Order: Zygotene is the second sub-stage of prophase 1, while pachytene is the third sub-stage of prophase 1.
  2. Events: In zygotene, synapsis begins with the formation of a synaptonemal complex between homologous chromosomes. In pachytene, crossing over of genetic material occurs between non-sister chromatids, leading to the exchange of genetic material and causing genetic variation between organisms.

In summary, zygotene is characterized by the pairing of homologous chromosomes and the formation of synaptonemal complexes, while pachytene involves the crossing over of genetic material between non-sister chromatids, resulting in genetic variation.

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  • What is the Difference Between Pachytene and Zygotene?
  • Comparative Table: Pachytene vs Zygotene

    • Comparative Table: Pachytene vs Zygotene

    Here is a table comparing the differences between pachytene and zygotene:

    Feature Pachytene Zygotene
    Stage Third sub-stage of prophase 1 meiosis Second sub-stage of prophase 1 meiosis
    Synapsis Occurs between non-sister chromatids of bivalents Begins in homologous chromosomes
    Chromosome Pairing Chromosomes are still in the process of pairing Paired homologous chromosomes are closer together
    Chromatin Condensation Occurs Does not occur
    Crossing Over Yes, between non-sister chromatids No
    Order in Meiosis Follows zygotene Precedes pachytene

    Both pachytene and zygotene are stages in prophase 1 of meiosis, which is a type of cell division that occurs during sexual reproduction to produce sex cells or gametes.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.